Brazil Supreme Court stalls privatization of Paraná’s Celepar

The Supreme Federal Court (STF) has suspended the proceeding to privatize the Companhia de Tecnologia da Informação e Comunicação do Paraná (Celepar). Minister Alexandre de Moraes requested a “vista,” pausing the virtual judgment of the direct action of unconstitutionality (ADI 7896) that challenges the state law authorizing the sale. The pause can last up to 90 days, after which President of the Court Edson Fachin will set a new date.

The case was originally halted by Minister Flávio Dino, who ordered a report on data‑protection impacts before any transfer of the state‑owned tech firm. Dino’s interim measure cited risks to personal data, public‑security systems and digital sovereignty. Minister Cristiano Zanin later opened a dissent, arguing the action should not be examined by the STF because it concerns the execution of the privatization rather than its constitutionality, though he said he would support Dino’s injunction if the majority votes to keep the case open.

The judgment, which can receive votes until 18 August, is expected to set a precedent for the sale of other state‑run information‑technology companies across Brazil. The government of Paraná remains unable to advance the privatization while the STF’s decision remains in force.